I'm thinking about getting a 1998 Magna for use as a long distance ride. My hawk is basically streetfightered out so I want somthing I can cruise acroos the country.

I really like the looks of the Magna. I also like the fact that the V4 was basically taken from the VFR750 Interceptor and retuned a bit for the Mag.
I have also seen some very impressive hp/torque numbers from this engine.


It also has a claimed dry wieght of just over 500lbs, way lighter than the VTX1300/1800. The look of the VTX series is sweet, just too heavy for me!

Dislikes: I would rather have a belt or shaft drive(Magna has a chain). Drum rear brake.....ummmm


Anyone ever ride one extensively? Opinions???

THX!

 

No, I but I tons of experience with the VFR (owned 7) and it would be a hell of a lot better cross country touring bike.

The magna only has a 5 speed and a 3.5 gal tank.

 

I can’t speak on the Magna but I can say I absolutely loved my Interceptor! On a deferent note my cruiser is a VTX 1800 and I love it. It has a ton of torque and is a blast to ride for a big bike. Just had it at the strip last night and ran 12.6 @ 101, not bad for a 740 Lb bike. My biggest complaint is I drag hard parts way too often and it really could use a six speed for long rides. I say that just because it turns such a high RPM at 75 MPH. If it was me with no passenger (and don’t get me wrong about the VTX) I would by the VFR just because it’s a perfect blend between sport and touring! Just my 2cents

 

Interceptors own the long road.

 

hummm,

Small gas tank on the mag does suck.... I really want to stretch out my legs on a long ride though.
I sat on the 25th anniversary edition of the VFR, loved it , but man, I wanna stretch my legs out on a long ride. I dont think I'd mind refuling every 170 on the Mag...
One more note on newer hondas... I had a 03' 600RR and it was boring to ride.. Straight up boring.. It was too refined.. too good.. lacked character..it just worked too well.. my YSR50 put a bigger smile on my face. I've read moto mag articles that say the same about the VFR800.. Almost too refined.. BLING, Opinion??


One more thing. The Mag should be spinning at 4800RPM at 65MPH and getting 50mpg's according to a current owner.. not bad for a five speed

I guess I really want it.

 

Good question, I've always been curious about them as well and have been pretty interested in some good local deals on them. Nice looking bike with what seems like good power. Kinda like the superhawk in that you seem to get alot for your money on a clean used one. Cycle World did a comparo a few years back with 4 "forgotten" bikes, the magna, tl1000s, vmax, and the concours (no superhawk?). If I dig the issue up I'll post up the month and year.

 

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufactur...gna-15058.html

Here's an old motorcycle.com review...

 

Thank you Chaos! I was looking for that type of review yesterday for hours. I apreciate you taking the time to post that.

I too am intrigued by the good prices that can be found on the 94'-04' Magna. If you read the user reviews on Epinions.com the owners rave and rave about how great it is. I think I'll have to ride one before I make a purchase.